Muotkajärvi is popular place to visit when touring the northwest corner of Finnish Lapland. It’s a small lakeside village encompassed by boreal forests, fells, lakes and rivers. In and around Muotkajärvi you can discover this untouched wilderness via hiking trails, horseback rides and snowmobile safaris. Bask in the unique natural spectacles of night-less days and the dancing skies of the northern lights.
The village itself is a small community of reindeer-herding families that reside on the banks of its namesake lake, Muotkajärvi. In the summer months, the lake’s tranquil water is ideal for exploring via canoe and rowboat. Go to nearby Lake Sotkajärvi. Here, the Sotkajarven Bird-Watching Tower is an excellent vantage point for spotting varied birdlife.
Just a 15-minute drive east is Hetta, the main village in Enontekiö municipality. Visit the Fell-Lapland Nature Centre to learn about the roving lifestyle of the Sámi people and appreciate the biodiversity of Lapland. Walk to the Jyppyrä Lookout, which affords sweeping views over picturesque landscapes. Go canoeing and fish for salmon on Ounasjoki River.
Surrounding Muotkajärvi are some of Finland’s most breathtaking national parks. Stretching south from Hetta is Pallas-Yllästunturin National Park. To the north are Tarvantovaaran Wilderness Area and Pöyrisjärven Wilderness Area. About a 1-hour drive east is Lemmenjoki National Park.
Within the parks you can hike and bike along trails that range from a few hours to multiple days. Camp and walk beneath the midnight sun from late May to late July. Join cross-country tours, dog-sled trek and snowmobile safaris in winter. Watch the northern lights illuminated the sky between November and April.
A little farther afield is the Malla Strict Nature Reserve, which sits on the border between Finland, Norway and Sweden. Climb to a panoramic lookout point at the summit of Saana Fell. Nearby Käsivarsi Wilderness Area is home to Finland’s tallest fell, 4344-feet (1324-meter) tall Halti Fell.
Reach Muotkajärvi by flying to Enontekiö Airport or arrive by rented car. Hetta is the closest village with accommodation options. There are also camping grounds, huts and lodges located in the national parks.
